Thousands of Kiwis will be heading south this Christmas with Queenstown the most popular destination to enjoy some summer sun, according to accommodation website Holiday Houses ( holidayhouses.co.nz ).

Thousands of Kiwis will be heading south this Christmas with Queenstown the most popular destination to enjoy some summer sun, according to accommodation website Holiday Houses (holidayhouses.co.nz).

Aaron Clancy from Holiday Houses said Kiwis had been snapping up baches around the country over the last three months as summer crept closer and they get their holiday plans in order.

“We always see a lot of activity from August onwards, as people start to see the light at the end of the tunnel and get cracking with planning their summer.

“From what we’re seeing, most Kiwis are opting for the lake instead of the beach this year, with close to 6,000 searches for baches in the Queenstown area in the last three months. The awesome festivals, food and photo opportunities makes the resort town a hot favourite for Kiwis.

“The pristine beaches and chilled-out vibe of the Coromandel Peninsula is still a magnet for holidaymakers, and the second most searched for destination this summer with 4,200 searches.

“Holiday houses and baches in Northland are also in hot demand, coming in third place with 3,200 searches, followed by ‘The Great Lake’ with Taupo searched for 3,000 times.

“Plenty of Kiwis are looking 3,000 kilometres abroad and considering the Cook Islands for a tropical break. Since August, 2,500 Kiwis have been looking at holiday houses in Rarotonga making it the fifth most popular destination.”

Mr Clancy said the most popular property was a good old three-bedroom bach in Papamoa, in walking distance to the beach. It took the top spot on Holiday Houses after receiving more than 200 enquiries in the last three months.

“A modern four-bedroom bach looking over the water in Mount Maunganui came in a close second, followed by a stunning Queenstown property perched on the hill overlooking The Remarkables,” he said.

Mr Clancy said while many locations are almost booked out, there is still hope for the last minute holiday-maker.

“For those Kiwis who haven’t yet managed to make up their mind on where to go this summer, there’s still holiday houses available but you’ll need to be quick, even though it’s only November.

“Also, if you have a property that’s going to be available during summer, now’s the time to get it listed – demand for great holiday spots is massive.”